The PNJ and WEAR TV are reporting that Marty Donovan failed to get the necessary valid signatures to force another referendum on the Community Maritime Park. Donovan told PNJ reporter Jamie Page that he only had about 4,500 signatures—which may or may not be accurate—and doesn’t expect a significant influx of signatures before 5 p.m.
Of course, the petition would only have forced a referendum on the type of bonds issued, but Donovan wanted so badly to make this about the park itself. This is the fourth consecutive defeat for the Marty Donovan contingent – 2006 CMP Referendum, 2008 Donovan re-election campaign, 2009 City Charter and now lack support for his petition.